The Illawarra is so fortunate to be within a stone’s throw of a number of amazing wineries in both the Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands. If you enjoy your wine and haven’t visited a winery before, why not organise something as an excuse to catch up with friends. The picturesque scenery, the quality food and the friendly staff that come with a winery visit make for a thoroughly enjoyable day out.

If the ‘designated driver’ issue is a bone of contention between the group, why not consider an organised winery tour for the day that picks you up and drops you off in the Illawarra – you’d be surprised at how affordable it is! Another option is to make a weekend of it and book accommodation at a winery.

Many wineries also offer exceptional quality food, so it might be worth making reservations for lunch to balance out your liquid intake over the course of the day.

It’s best to go in to a winery with an open mind. If you’ve steered away from certain grape varieties in the past, or have it in your head that you dislike a particular time of wine, this is the time to revisit those ones. You might just surprise yourself and find that you really are a Chardonnay drinker after all! Most wineries are family run businesses, who have suffered through drought, bushfires and of course that global pandemic. If you can support these local producers, while having an amazing time out with friends, please consider a winery tour for your next get together!